Corbett had been under pressure from state senators and parents of seizure-wracked children. Democrats running to challenge Corbett in the fall election favor a broader legalization of medical marijuana.

Corbett spokesman Jay Pagni says the governor's plan would allow cannabidiol to be dispensed by research-based hospitals with medical professionals who are experienced in treating children with severe seizure disorders.

However, Dana Ulrich, whose 6-year-old daughter suffers from severe seizures, says Corbett's position is so narrow that it won't help everyone who needs it.